Built in the 1930s, Bandelier National Monument’s headquarters complex is one of the most intact collections of Civilian Conservation Corps work within the National Park Service. Rehabilitation of its Visitor Center/Museum called for an inclusive outreach process to area pueblos - 13 of whom have ancient ties to the site. To discern the building’s original character required wiggling through holes to explore concealed historic interiors. The expansion enhances the visitor experience with contemporary interpretive and exhibit areas.
- Extraordinary collaboration with 13 Pueblos to share ancient stories that connect them to the site
- Sensitive additions to the 1930s visitor center provide space for exhibits, bookstore and the park’s new discovery film
- Staff wiggled through tiny holes in the 1970s exhibits to explore and ultimately restore the building’s original interiors
- Historic flagstone floors were mapped, removed, labeled and salvaged, so they could be reinstalled to conceal a new underfloor heating and cooling system